Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire has visited Glenthorne Primary school in conjunction with the Children’s Commissioner
On Friday, 3rd of September, the MP for South Staffordshire and Dame Rachel de Souza met the headteacher, Miss Rebecca Woodall and children from Glenthorne Primary school ahead of the restart of the school term.
The visit included a discussion about the curriculum and the activities that children have available at Glenthorne as part of the Forest School scheme, which provides children with numerous opportunities for creative and outdoor learning. There was also the chance to meet the school dog, Nellie, which helps children cope with mental health and various conditions, including autism.
Rebecca Woodall said: "We welcomed Mr Williamson into our school last Friday and we very much appreciated him, and Dame Rachel de Souza, speaking with our children but also listening to many of our staff as they discussed how school has had to adapt over the past 18 months due to the pandemic and the challenges that we've faced. During their visit, we were also able to show them the strategies we have put into place to support mental health and wellbeing such as Forest School, extended family support and not forgetting, our school dog, Nellie."
Rachel de Souza said: “I was so impressed with my visit to Glenthorne Primary and to meet an inspiring head, leading an enthusiastic team doing all they could to welcome children back into school. I loved the forest school, and as a former teacher really noted their great approach to phonics. I hope all the pupils and staff have a wonderful start to a new school year.”
Gavin Williamson said: “It was an absolute pleasure to visit Glenthorne Primary school and witness first-hand how the forest school concept is providing children with a high-quality education. I wish all the pupils at Glenthorne and in all schools across the country, a warm welcome back to school.”